The Georgia Poison Center has joined poison centers across the country and the American Association of Poison Control Centers (AAPCC) to introduce a new, poison emergency national toll-free hotline. The new number, 1-800-222-1222, will allow callers to get free, confidential advice from a poison expert 24-hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year anywhere in the country. The new number was launched in Georgia in January 2002.
By calling the new number, callers will reach specially trained health care specialists-nurses, pharmacists and doctors-who can provide help with poison emergencies or answers to poison-related questions. The new national number works on the same principle as 911. It will automatically and immediately identify the caller's location, then connect the caller to the closest local poison center. All services are free and confidential, and are available for the hearing impaired and for those who speak languages other than English.
You can now call the Georgia Poison Center by dialing the new toll-free number outside of the Metro-Atlanta Area. The current toll free number 800-282-5846 will continue to operate for sometime, but will be gradually phased out. Residents of Metro-Atlanta can continue to reach the Center by calling the current local area number 404-616-9000. The current teletype for the deaf and hearing impaired, 404-616-9287, will continue to be used as well.
On average, the Georgia Poison Center handles approximately 300-400 each day. Trained staff including nurses, pharmacists, and physicians respond to a variety of poisoning calls. Other services provided by the Georgia Poison Center include professional education, public education, research and data collection. For more information about the new national toll free phone number or the Georgia Poison Center, contact the Education Department of the Georgia Poison Center at (404) 616-9235.
Debbie Wilburn is County Agent/Family and Consumer Science Agent with the Hall (770)535-8290 and the Forsyth (770)887-2418 County Extension Service.
Wednesday
July 16th, 2025
7:48AM
